Middle East Travel Writing, History & Archeology
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The desolate expanse of Central Arabia, with its shifting dunes and hidden oases, has been a canvas for intrepid explorers seeking to decode its mysteries. Among the stalwarts of these endeavours, William Gifford Palgrave, a Jesuit priest, emerges as a central figure in the 19th-century exploration saga. As we embark on this journey through the … Read more
In his seminal work, “The Penetration of Arabia,” D.G. Hogarth masterfully weaves together the written memoirs of early European travellers, offering readers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era. Among these intrepid explorers is George Forster Sadlier, whose journey to Arabia unfolds against the tumultuous backdrop of Ottoman-Saudi conflict—a period marked by instability and transformative … Read more
John Keane (1854 – 1937) is one of the lesser-celebrated but highly remarkable figures in the history of Arabian travel writing. Born an Englishman in the 19th century, he embarked on a remarkable journey that transcended the conventional boundaries of historical exploration. Disguised as a Muslim, Keane immersed himself in the vibrant tapestry of Meccan … Read more
In the heart of the Arabian Peninsula lies the vast and enigmatic Nafud Desert, a landscape of shifting sands and ancient mysteries. Among the pioneers who dared to unveil its secrets was William Gifford Palgrave, whose exploration laid the groundwork for a succession of intrepid travellers. Palgrave’s footsteps marked the beginning of a captivating journey … Read more
Exploring the uncharted territories of Central Arabia has been a historical undertaking that has captured the imaginations of daring adventurers, only some of whom have left detailed accounts of their accomplishments. This essay delves into the journeys of two European explorers, Carlo Guarmani and Charles Montague Doughty, who traversed the formidable Nafud desert to unravel … Read more
D.G. Hogarth, in his insightful literary exploration of the Arabian Peninsula, unveils a landscape largely uncharted by Europeans well into the early 19th century. As Hogarth intricately recounts, the enigmatic region of Asir stood as a testament to the unexplored frontiers that beckoned geographical inquiry. Notably, he attributes the advancement of cultural understanding and cartographical … Read more